Page 33 of Stolen Kisses

"Go kick ass, Hannah.”

I felt energized after hanging up. I could do this.

I immediately sat down and replied to Magda's email. The interview was tomorrow, so I didn't have a whole lot of time to prepare, but the job would also start at the first of the next month, which was in just ten days. That would mean I would have my first paycheck in the bank quicker than I thought.

The second I sent the email, I realized I should thank Chase. Even though I hoped I’d get the job on my own merits, I still had a foot in the door because of him. I picked up my phone and immediately texted him before I lost my nerve.

Hannah: Hey Chase, Magda just emailed me. Thank you so much for forwarding my contact information and for doing this.

Chase: My pleasure.

I couldn't believe he'd already replied. I was giddy.

What the hell? Turn it down, girl.

Chase:I've gone through your resume. It's impressive. You'll be an asset to the company.

Chase: I can't wait to see you.

My stomach somersaulted.

Hannah: Will you be there?

Chase:No, I'm not in charge of hiring.

Good, because I wasn't sure I could focus if I knew he was around.

Chase:But I'll drop by and wish you good luck.

Hannah: Maybe it’s better if you don’t. Might make others suspicious.

Chase: I’d just stop by to say good luck, not kiss you against the wall.

And there went my concentration already.

Hannah: Chase, remember your promise?

Chase: I do. I wasn't going to break it, but it’s interesting that that's where your mind went.

I grinned, deciding to tease him a bit.

Hannah: Word has it you're not good at keeping your promises. Just spoke to my sister and Josh.

Instead of replying, he called me. I licked my lips and held my breath as I pressed the green button and brought the phone to my ear.

"Whatever Josh said, don't believe him," he said as soon as I answered.

"Really? Your best friend is lying?"

"No, but he doesn't always talk about me in good terms."

"Oh, right, and you don't deserve all that trash talk?”

"What did he say? I need to have a word with Josh. He's my best friend. He can't keep bad-mouthing me."

"He's not, really," I said. "It feels like he's looking out for me, and that's nice. I haven't had that from a guy. He's mostly just emphasizing that you don't do relationships."

He cleared his throat. "He's not wrong."

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